Zimbabwean Sunsets: A Photographic Journey

By Ilala Lodge on April 8, 2015

Watching the sky slowly turn from day to night upon the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, gazing upon the various shades of red, orange and yellow as the sunsets over Lake Kariba, or simply appreciating another end of a fantastic day in Victoria Falls – a Zimbabwe sunset is something to be admired, awed and never-forgotten.

Lake Kariba

Impressively, Lake Kariba is Africa’s largest man-made dam, and a popular holiday destination of Zimbabwean locals and foreigners from near and far.

The expansive, rugged wilderness that is the Matusadona National Park can be found on the shores of Lake Kariba. The park is home to diverse array of game, including elephant, buffalo, zebra, impala and waterbuck. Hundreds of species of bird can be seen in the area, but Kariba is widely known as a hub for the beautiful Fish Eagle with their eerie cries. The lake itself is an extraordinary attraction, boasting a multiplicity of freshwater fish, which make fishing a popular year-round activity.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, as many know, has some of the most breath-taking views on the planet. The massive sheet of falling water and spray is both awe-inspiring and spellbinding. Known by the locals as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders”, the Victoria Falls were declared a World Heritage Site in 1989 for being one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.

The nearby Victoria Falls National Park, which borders the front of Ilala Lodge, extends along the Zambezi River from the larger Zambezi National Park to further below the falls. Visitors have the chance to gaze upon elephant, cape buffalo, eland, white rhino, hippos and more. Ilala offers exhilarating game drives and bush walks in the park, as well as relaxing cruises along the Zambezi River.

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, located in the south-west of the country. Covering over 1.4 million hectares, the grassy plains and vast salt pans boast an immense concentration of animals. Lion, elephant, cheetah, leopard, African Wild Dog, and buffalo can all be spotted within the Park on one of many game drives offered by safari companies.

Mana Pools

At the very edge of the lower Zambezi River Valley, an immense span of wilderness is methodically being eroded into a series of pools and ox-bow lakes. This area is known as Mana Pools National Park, and is a haven for big game, incredible bird life, and adventurers. The natural beauty is pristine and serene, and much of the park is still untouched. Enticing activities include canoe excursions, game drives and bush walks strictly led by qualified, experienced professional guides.